by USA TODAY Sports, USA TODAY

by USA TODAY Sports, USA TODAY

JACKSON, Tenn. - Arkansas State confirmed Thursday that junior defensive lineman Markel Owens was one of two men killed in a shooting.

Jerry Scott, the school's sports information director, confirms Owens was one of the victims and said "it's a sad day" for the Red Wolves.

"Markel was a part of our Red Wolves family, and it is obvious he was a well-liked and respected member of our team who will be missed," said head football coach Blake Anderson. "We are doing everything possible to comfort his teammates, and we extend our compassion to his family during this difficult time."

Jackson police said Owens, 21, and Johnny Shivers, 36, were fatally shot during the robbery at a duplex on Wednesday night. Shivers died at the scene. Owens was transported to Jackson-Madison County General Hospital and pronounced dead.

A 37-year-old woman, who was Shivers' wife and Owens' mother, was also shot. She was treated and released from Jackson-Madison County General Hospital. Her name was not immediately released, but Owen's mother is listed as Chermaine Owens in the Arkansas State media guide.

Investigators say Shivers was arriving home when he was rushed by two masked men and forced inside the apartment. The suspects demanded money and a struggle began. Owens and his mother were inside the apartment at the time.

During the struggle, Owens helped Shivers and began fighting one of the men, police said. Shivers and Owens were both shot during the struggle. One of the gunmen then shot the woman. The robbers got away with a large amount of cash.

Investigators believe Shivers was specifically targeted. Police also discovered a large amount of marijuana inside the apartment. While the motive remains under investigation, police believe the robbers had prior knowledge of the drugs and/or cash inside the apartment.

The 21-year-old Owens played in 11 games for the Red Wolves last season, helping Arkansas State (8-5) to at least a share of its third straight Sun Belt Conference title and a second straight win in the GoDaddy Bowl.

The 6-2, 303-pound native of Jackson, Tenn., would have been a senior next season.

The following was posted by the Arkansas State football team's official Twitter account @RedWolvesFBall at approximately 9:19 a.m. today: "Today is a tough day for the Red Wolves family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Markel Owens' family and friends at this difficult time."

Arkansas State linebacker Trent Waters? tweeted: "R.i.P to my teammate nd bro markel man theres gotta be a better place than this in HEAVEN."

And former Arkansas State placekicker Brian Davis tweeted: "It's like losing one of my brothers. You always were looking out for me. Love you @Oskie2Real (Markel Owens) one of the best teammates I've ever had...RIP"